Are you considering getting your teeth done in Turkey? When considering having dental work carried out overseas, Turkey is an excellent option for many reasons.
Why get your teeth done in Turkey?
The main reason to travel for dental treatment in Turkey is the price. Patients find that if they travel to Turkey, costs are lower, meaning a saving of 50-70% on UK dental prices. Of course, the more extensive and costly the treatment, the more you stand to save. That’s why treatments such as teeth crowns, veneers, and implants are particularly popular in Turkey.
One reason for cheaper prices is the low legal costs. Dental Indemnity insurance in Turkey is much cheaper than in Europe and the UK. The reflection of these low legal costs is clearly visible in the fees for dental procedures in Turkey.
Considering the experience of dentists and the quality of work, having dental treatment in Turkey can save you a small fortune.
Types of dental treatments in Turkey
Dental clinics in Turkey are capable of carrying out a broad spectrum of dental procedures. If you are considering getting your teeth done in Turkey, unless you are seeking an unusual procedure, it will most likely be easy to find a clinic. Here are some of the most popular procedures available:
Dental crowns
A dental crown or cap is one of the best ways to restore teeth that are damaged, misshapen, or discoloured. Dental crowns cover or encircle either a natural tooth or a dental implant. By covering the tooth completely, with high-quality materials and an experienced dentist, you can have a totally natural-looking tooth.
If you want a brighter and whiter Hollywood smile (with confidence), then a dental crowning procedure in Turkey could be your solution.
Teeth veneers
Veneers are also called teeth veneers, dental veneers or dental facets. Dental veneers are thin shells placed on the teeth made of composite, porcelain, or ceramic ranging from 0.5 to 0.7 mm of width. Veneers are used in dental procedures, cosmetic procedures, and orthodontics to correct or change the colour, direction, location, shape, or length of the anterior teeth in the upper and/or lower arches.
In short, teeth veneers are placed on top of the patient’s natural teeth, covering the visible area of the normal teeth, crafting a perfect smile with white and aesthetic teeth.
Dental implants
Are you considering getting dental implants in Turkey? Dental implants are the most favourable treatment option for replacing missing teeth. A dental implant is a screw which is made of titanium to replace the root of a tooth. In dentistry, dental implants can be used to replace single teeth or multiple teeth — like All-on-4s.
Cost of dental treatment in Turkey
In the table below are some approximate costs for dental treatment in Turkey versus the UK:
| Turkey dental prices | UK private dental prices | |
| Consultation fee | Often free | £50 – £170 |
| Single tooth implant + crown | £600 – £1,200 | £2,000 – £2,900 |
| Ceramic crown | £175 – £350 | £400 – £1,000 |
| Porcelain veneer | £175 – £300 | £400 – £1,000 |
| Laser teeth whitening | £135 – £300 | £500 – £1,500 |
| All-on-4 (per jaw) | £3,000 – £5,000 | £5,000 – £14,000 |
| Return flights | From £150 | N/A |
| Accommodation | From £25 | N/A |
| Insurance not included. All prices are indicative and subject to exchange rates. |
Are there waiting lists for dentists in Turkey?
No, in general, you’ll find that waiting times are next to none. You should be able to schedule an appointment very quickly with your chosen dentist in Turkey – helpful if you need urgent dental care.
What are the standards, qualifications and regulations for dentists in Turkey?
The growth of dental tourism in Turkey is not just down to price. You’ll be pleased to know that when considering getting your teeth done in Turkey, the industry also relies on its dentists maintaining high standards to ensure a good reputation. Over half a million tourists visit the country each year for medical treatment including dental work and cosmetic surgery.
Dentists in Turkey must train for five years at one of the country’s 15 schools of dentistry. After obtaining their DDS degree they may specialise with a further five years’ education in the fields of orthodontics or prosthodontics.
Look out for the TDB logo
Dental education and legislation are regulated by the Ministry of Health (Sağlık Bakanlığı). Dentists practising in Turkey must have a qualification recognised by this body.
They must also register with the Turkish Dental Association (TDB), an organisation that monitors dental practices and helps develop the profession through continuing education. Currently, over 26,000 dentists in Turkey hold this membership.
Dentists performing any kind of cosmetic dentistry may also become members of the Turkish Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry (EDAD). This is optional, but it shows a dentist is committed to staying up-to-date with advancements and changes in the field through continued education. If you want to get dental crowns in Turkey, you may prefer to use an EDAD member dentist.
Although the majority of dental clinics in Turkey maintain high standards, there are unfortunately some dentists who are trying to make a profit without having the correct qualifications or equipment. That’s why it’s very important to do your own research and read reviews before visiting a dental centre in Turkey – just as you should with any location!
Locations for dental care in Turkey
When searching online for places to stay in Turkey, there are a plethora of options, from the country’s largest city, Istanbul, to resort-laden Antalya on the coast of the Mediterranean and the popular beach town of Marmaris.
Turkey is unique in that it has strong influences from both the west and the east. It has a patchwork of shared history with the ancient Roman, Greek, Persian, Ottoman and Byzantine empires.
Whether you are planning to explore a city, immerse yourself in culture, chill out in a hammock, or adventure beneath the sea, there is no shortage of holiday options in Turkey to suit all tastes.
Istanbul
Istanbul is a true melting pot of cultures, where the East meets the West. There’s endless sightseeing to do and it’s also where you’ll find some of the most reputable dentists in Turkey. If you decide to get dental treatment in Istanbul you’ll have multiple clinics to choose from. Therefore if you need extensive work or highly specific treatment, Istanbul could be the best destination in Turkey to meet your needs.
Aside from having dental treatment, you’ll be able to explore Istanbul’s myriad restaurants, bars, shops and hookah lounges which are rich with the aromas of kebabs, coffee, spices and the sweet scent of shisha pipes.
Istanbul is a large city, so it is recommended to book a hotel that is close (within walking distance) of your dental clinic.
Antalya
Antalya is a Turkish resort city with a yacht-filled Old Harbour and beaches flanked by large hotels. It’s a gateway to Turkey’s southern Mediterranean region, known as the Turquoise Coast for its blue waters. Remnants remain from Antalya’s time as a major Roman port. These include Hadrian’s Gate, built to honour the Roman emperor’s visit in 130 A.D, and 2nd-century Hidirlik Tower, with harbour views.
As a popular tourist destination, you’ll find that most dentists in Antalya are proficient in English. The majority of the dental centres in Antalya are located along the coast, close to the hotels and resorts. There are a number of cheaper dental clinics in Antalya that are closer to the centre of the city but they are generally not so used to treating tourists.
Marmaris
Marmaris is a Mediterranean resort town along the Turkish Riviera (also known as the Turquoise Coast) with a busy, pebbly beach and long seafront promenade. It is known for its lively nightlife on Bar Street, which is home to open-air clubs and music venues. Marmaris sits in a valley between pine-forested mountains and clear waters, which are popular sailing and diving destinations.
Similar to Antalya, dentists in Marmaris are familiar with treating tourists and have proficient English, particularly those who have dental clinics in Marmaris which are located close to the hotels and seafront.
Izmir
Izmir is a city on Turkey’s Aegean coast. Known as Smyrna in antiquity, it was founded by the Greeks, taken over by the Romans and rebuilt by Alexander the Great before becoming part of the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. Today, its expansive archaeological sites include the Roman Agora of Smyrna, now an open-air museum.
The hilltop Kadifekale, or Velvet Castle, built during Alexander’s reign, overlooks the city. If you are hoping to absorb some of Turkey’s rich culture during your dental holiday then Izmir could be the right place for you!
Other dental locations in Turkey
If you want your dental holiday to involve soaking up the Turkish sun you might want to visit a dental clinic in Side, Kusadasi, or Fethiye which are all popular options located along the coast. These are all locations that offer considerably cheaper dental treatments than you will find in the UK.
Considerations & how to book a dentist in Turkey
The best dental centre in Turkey for you will depend on the work you need to have done and what kind of holiday, if any, you want to have while you are there.
If you are seeking a specialist treatment or procedure, then you should look for a specialist dentist in that specific field.
If you require multiple treatments that require multiple specialists you may want to consider getting treatment from one of the larger dental clinics that employ several dentists in different fields.
Below is a list of additional considerations to take into account before getting your teeth done in Turkey:
- Is the dentist you have chosen a member of the Turkish Dental Association (TDB)? This is mandatory for all dentists practising in Turkey.
- Registration with the Turkish Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry (EDAD) is a plus point if you are considering cosmetic dentistry in Turkey.
- How experienced is your dentist in the procedure you need? Are there online reviews available?
- Is English going to be an issue? Ask to speak directly with the dentist prior to booking so you have a solid idea of their language ability.
- Is the dental work guaranteed?
- Does the clinic provide extra services such as airport transfers or accommodation as part of your package?
Never feel uncomfortable about asking questions, you want to be sure that you are booking the right dentist for your needs and you need to be comfortable in your decision!
FAQs
Are there waiting lists for dentists in Turkey?
No, in general, you’ll find that waiting times are next to none.
Cost of dental treatment in Turkey
Dental treatment in Turkey is typically 50-70% lower than in the UK. Ceramic crowns cost between £175 – £350 and porcelain veneers cost between £175 – £300.